Flooding in Recife could have an impact on USA-Germany match

Less than three hours before the start of the titanic USA-Germany showdown on Thursday, the streets of Recife were flooded to knee level. While the soccer stadium is actually located about an hour outside of the city, the water was causing problems for both local residents and everyone who was trying to get out to the stadium grounds after spending the night in the city.

It also has FIFA on high alert:

Per FIFA - referee Ravshan Irmatov of Uzbekistan on his way to Arena Pernambuco, will inspect field condition when he arrives. #USAvGER

Of course, this could play right into the United States' hands. A wet pitch cuts down on speed and passing, and could result in a relatively bland ball-control game. A 0-0 tie that would get the United States into the knockout round of 16, say.